Ups
- The base-model GSX-R1000 offers an easier entry into a Suzuki superbike, while still packing potential
- All-around performance and legendary Gixxer character
- Sets the bar for sportbikes in regard to street riding comfort
Downs
- The Gixxer has fallen a step behind the competition with no major updates since 2017
- LED lighting is everywhere but the turn signals
- LCD display is a blast from the past in comparison to modern-day TFT dashboards
Verdict
The Suzuki GSX-R1000 and GSX-R1000R carry the flag for the legendary Gixxer line, offering a balance of performance that keeps it a contender.
Overview
Since Suzuki first stuffed a 988cc inline-four engine into the compact GSX-R750 chassis in 2001, the GSX-R1000 has held its pace as a heavy hitter in the superbike category. The last major update to the GSX-R came in 2017 with a ground-up redesign, but development has been held nearly stagnant since. Regardless, the Gixxer remains a favorite for its well-balanced, easy-to-ride character and usable performance.
Updates for 2021
Suzuki is celebrating its heritage with a 100th Anniversary Edition GSX-R1000R in 2021, which features a unique paint scheme. Otherwise, both the GSX-R1000 and GSX-R1000R models remain identical.
Pricing and Variants
The base-model Suzuki GSX-R1000 is available for $15,799, while the up-spec GSX-R1000R version has a $17,749 MSRP.
The differences? The R-model is equipped with Showa’s more premium Balance Free Front Fork (BFF) and Balance Free Rear Cushion Light (BFRC-Lite), a bidirectional quickshifter, launch control, cornering ABS, and steel-braided brake lines. That said, if your primary intent for a Gixxer is the racetrack, the R-model is the obvious choice.
The 100th Anniversary Edition GSX-1000R is also available in 2021 for $17,999.
Competition
Other fully faired superbike competition includes the Aprilia RSV4 1100, Ducati Panigale V4, Kawasaki ZX-10R, BMW S 1000 R, Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, and Yamaha YZF-R1.
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Suzuki’s GSX-R1000 and GSX-R1000R are powered by a 999cc liquid-cooled inline-four with the Suzuki Racing Variable Valve Timing (SR-VVT) system. It has a signature engine character from its exhilarating exhaust note to its conventional firing order. Motorcyclist’s Adam Waheed reported that the engine is peppy from the bottom-end and offers oomph in the midrange for passing traffic. The top-end is also strong, but some competitors could pass it up in that regard.
Quick response from the electronic ride-by-wire system combined with the bidirectional quickshifter is an easy way to get through the Gixxer’s six-speed gearbox efficiently.
Handling
At a claimed wet weight of 445 pounds, the R-model’s maneuverability impressed our test rider. In his review, he wrote, “It steers more sharply than its predecessor while still offering a high degree of stability. Equally impressive is the lofty level of rear grip that the chassis affords.”
The GSX-R1000R features Showa’s Balance Free Fork and Showa’s Balance Free Rear Cushion Light shock. The front is responsive and easily adjustable at the bottom of the fork legs. The rear is also easily adjustable and performs well on both track and street.
Brakes
Strong braking performance is had with Brembo and Nissin calipers (front/rear). The front Brembo four-piston unit grabs hold on 320mm discs while the one-piston Nissin clamps a 240mm disc. The addition of steel-braided brake lines are an improvement and help mitigate brake fade, which is useful under the extreme conditions of racetrack use. We were particularly pleased with the rear’s strong and responsive feel. Cornering ABS comes standard on the R.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
During our testing of the 2021 GSX-1000R we averaged 36 mpg.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
The inline-four is impressively slim making riding comfort one of the top in the class. The seat is supportive and passenger accommodations are available. Clip-ons are not overly aggressive and the pegs are located in a comfortable position.
Electronics
The Engine Control Module (ECM) works in tandem with EFI and IMU to enhance the bike’s performance. A ride-by-wire throttle helps to seamlessly match throttle inputs with the IMU-influenced electronics. There are three modes in Suzuki’s Drive Mode Selector (power delivery modes) and 10 selectable modes in its Motion Track Traction Control System. LED positioning lights and headlight guide the way in dark settings, though LED lighting is not carried over into the turn signals.
As previously mentioned, cornering ABS, launch control, and a bidirectional quickshifter are also features on the up-spec GSX-R1000R.
A digital LCD display is outfitted in front of the handlebars, but feels dated in comparison to the TFT displays on other 2021 superbikes.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
A 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty is included with longer coverage available.
Quality
The silhouette of the GSX-R1000 models sport clean lines and a racy liveries, and as far as comfort and performance are concerned, they hold their own in a field of cutthroat superbikes.
2021 Suzuki GSX-R1000/GSX-R1000R Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $15,799/$17,749 |
| Engine: | 999.8cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled inline-four; 16-valve |
| Bore x Stroke: | 76.0 x 55.1mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | Fuel injection w/ ride-by-wire throttle bodies |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate slipper; cable actuation |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | Transistorized electronic ignition |
| Frame: | Aluminum twin-spar |
| Front Suspension: | 43mm Showa Big Piston fork, fully adjustable/43mm Showa Balance Free Front Fork, fully adjustable (R-model); 4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Showa Remote Reservoir Shock, fully adjustable/Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion Light shock, fully adjustable (R-model); 5.1 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | Brembo 4-piston calipers, twin 320mm discs w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | Nissin 1-piston caliper, 240mm disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Cast aluminum; 17 x 3.5 in. / 17 x 6.0 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Bridgestone Battlax RS11; 120/70-17 / 190/55-17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 23.2°/3.7 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 55.9 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 5.1 in. |
| Seat Height: | 32.5 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 4.2 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 443 lb./445 lb. (R-model) |
| Contact: | suzukicycles.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com